Heart of Jesus: Long-Suffering Listener (Philippians 4:4-9)

Heart of Jesus: Long-Suffering Listener (Philippians 4:4-9)

One sentence summary in two sermons: Jesus is totally able to take your burdens (Capable Chief) and is endlessly patient with you and desires to communicate with you (Long-Suffering Listener).

Rejoice in the Lord (v.4)

Philippians 4:4 ESV

Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.

Joy comes from our relationship with Jesus, not our circumstances.

“Most people think you get joy when you get what you desire. But real joy comes when you realize what you deserve. The realization of what you deserve (judgment) and what you’ve received instead (salvation) should lead you to great joy.” - Francis Chan, CCE 172

2 Corinthians 6:10 ESV

as sorrowful, yet always rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, yet possessing everything.

Be Known for Graciousness (v.5)

Philippians 4:5 ESV

Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand;

Other translations use gentleness, a gentle spirit, or graciousness in place of reasonableness. The original language shows a difficult word to translate well, but the idea is a kind of gentleness with others. It’s the opposite of being contentious and self-seeking.

Is your graciousness evident to your friends, family, and those you’re regularly around? Do you even desire to be a gracious person?

Anxiety’s response: Prayer (v.6-7)

Philippians 4:6–7 ESV

do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Anxiety is “an intense desire for something, accompanied by a fear of the consequences of not receiving it” (John Piper, Is There Good Anxiety?)

Why were the Philippians anxious? They faced external threats, but Paul tells them not to be frightened by their opponents (1:28), they were dealing with internal opposition (4:2-3), they were worried about God’s provision (4:19).

“Crushing anxiety happens when I believe lies. You might think of your worries as false prophets. They’re telling you that God isn’t good, sovereign, and wise. You need to listen to another sermon. Every day the birds are preaching another one, and we should watch and listen to them.” - Francis Chan, CCE 176

Can you really relieve your anxiety through prayer and experience God’s unspeakable peace? Yes, you can.

Think on Praise-worthy Things (v.8-9)

Philippians 4:8–9 ESV

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.